Johannes Brahms' album "Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15 & 6 Piano Pieces, Op. 118" is a captivating collection of classical masterpieces, released on 11 september 2020 under the Accentus Music label. This album showcases Brahms' extraordinary talent, blending the grandeur of his Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor with the intimate beauty of his 6 Piano Pieces, Op. 118.
The album opens with the powerful and dramatic Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15, performed live. This concerto is a tour de force, featuring three distinct movements that range from the majestic "Maestoso" to the lively "Rondo. Allegro non troppo." The concerto is a testament to Brahms' ability to create music that is both deeply expressive and technically demanding.
Following the concerto, the album delves into the more intimate and reflective world of Brahms' 6 Piano Pieces, Op. 118. These pieces, composed towards the end of Brahms' career, are known for their lyrical beauty and emotional depth. The collection includes a variety of moods and tempos, from the passionate "Intermezzo. Allegro non assai, ma molto appassionato" to the tender "Intermezzo. Andante teneramente" and the graceful "Romance. Andante - Allegretto grazioso."
The album features the stellar performances of Myung-Whun Chung conducting the Staatskapelle Dresden, with Sunwook Kim on piano. Their interpretations bring out the rich nuances and complexities of Brahms' compositions, making this album a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast. With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a perfect blend of orchestral grandeur and piano intimacy, showcasing the full range of Brahms' musical genius.
